Transport Yourself to the Beach — 4 Best Seafood Restaurants in Cincinnati

With summer rapidly approaching, there's no doubt a trip to the ocean is on your mind. While it might not always be feasible to head to the beach, you can benefit from enjoying some incredible seafood without even leaving Cincinnati. Here are our top picks for seafood restaurants in the area:

1. McCormick & Schmick's
21 E 5th St, Cincinnati
513.721.9339

McCormick & Schmick’s 5th Street location offers a great view of the downtown square, making it a great destination to take out-of-town guests or that special someone in your life. You can't go wrong with coveted seafood dishes such as the King Crab legs, grilled Mahi Mahi, or classic shrimp cocktail. If you fancy a steak, McCormick and Schmick's is known for its perfectly seasoned premium cuts of beef as well.

2. Mr. Fisherman Alabama Fish Bar
1601 Race St, Cincinnati
513.241.2255

This seafood restaurant is a Cincinnati staple that has been serving the community its fried fish selections for more than 20 years. The menu is pretty simple with fish and chips being the focal point. The french fries are deep fried to perfection, and the restaurant's signature sautéed onions and peppers pair perfectly with the fish. If you're looking to enjoy a fried seafood meal, Alabama Fish Bar is the place to go.

3. The Anchor OTR
1401 Race St, Cincinnati
513.421.8111

The warmer temperatures this time of year makes patio dining ideal and The Anchor OTR offers a great outdoor patio to enjoy some of the best seafood Cincinnati has to offer. The rustic, nautical feel of this restaurant will transport you to the Nantucket coast. Begin the meal with oysters and a craft cocktail, and treat yourself to a main entree like the lobster roll, scallops, or crawfish beignet. If you're on a budget, check this restaurant out on a Thursday evening as they offer several specials, including $1 oysters.

4. Pelican's Reef
7261 Beechmont Ave, Cincinnati
513.232.2526

This strip mall seafood eatery may not look like much from the outside, but you won't be disappointed if you give it a try. The ambience will make you feel as though you're dining at a Florida Keys cafe, and the freshness of the seafood will convince you even further. The crab cakes and clam chowder are local favorites. The menu includes many healthy and comfort seafood options, so there's something for everyone.

If you're planning to stick around your Springs at West Chester or Springs at Liberty Township luxury apartment this summer, you're in luck. Not only will you be able to benefit from spending lazy afternoons at your resort-style pool, but one of these Cincinnati seafood restaurants is just a hop, skip and a jump away from home. Check out one of these local seafood restaurants to enhance your summer staycation in Cincinnati.

Are we missing your favorite seafood restaurant from this list? Please leave your suggestions in our comments section below!